# Getting Started

This guide will walk you through the initial steps to set up your account and create your first event.

## Creating Your Account

1. Visit the Fotify dashboard at [dashboard.fotify.app](https://dashboard.fotify.app)
2. You have two options to sign in:
   * **Google Authentication**: Click "Sign in with Google" and follow the prompts
   * **Magic Link**: Enter your email address and click "Sign in with Magic Link"
     * Check your email for a secure login link
     * Click the link to be automatically logged in

There's no password to remember, making login secure and convenient.

## Dashboard Overview

After logging in, you'll see your dashboard with these main sections:

1. **Sidebar Navigation**:
   * Home: Dashboard overview and event metrics
   * Events: Manage all your events
   * Photos: Access albums and uploads
   * RSVP: Manage invitations and guests
2. **Header Area**:
   * User menu (top right)
   * Credit balance display
   * Language selector
3. **Main Dashboard**:
   * Event metrics (live, upcoming, and past events)
   * Quick actions
   * Recent activity

## Checking Your Credit Balance

Before creating events, check your available credits:

1. Look at the credit indicator in the header
2. If this is your first time, you may have welcome credits
3. If you need to purchase credits:
   * Click on your credit balance or "Buy Credits"
   * Select a package that meets your needs
   * Complete the checkout process

## Creating Your First Event

To create a new event:

1. Click "Events" in the sidebar
2. Click the "New Event" button
3. Choose an event type based on your needs:
   * Each type has different features and credit costs
   * Review the comparison chart carefully
   * Free plan available for trying the platform
4. Fill in your event details:
   * Name (max 25 characters)
   * Description (max 150 characters)
   * Event photo (optional but recommended)
   * Location
   * Date and time
   * Photo approval settings
5. Click "Create Event"

Your event will be created in "Upcoming" status.

## Understanding Event Status

Events move through different statuses:

1. **Upcoming**: Initial status after creation
   * Can be edited but not used for photo collection
   * Preparations and settings can be configured
2. **Live**: Active event accepting photos
   * Start your event when ready to collect photos
   * Guests can upload and view the carousel
3. **Paused**: Temporarily suspended
   * Use when you need to temporarily stop photo collection
   * Can be resumed when needed
4. **Finished**: Completed event
   * Photos remain accessible but no new uploads
   * Download options available

## Setting Up Photo Collection

Once your event is created:

1. Start the event when ready (changes status to "Live")
2. Get the photo upload link or QR code:
   * Click on the QR code icon on your event
   * A modal will display with sharing options
3. Share with guests through:
   * Printed QR codes at the venue
   * Digital invitations
   * Direct messages
   * Social media

## Quick Tips for Success

1. **Test Before Your Event**:
   * Upload a few test photos
   * Check the carousel display
   * Scan the QR code from different devices
2. **Communicate Clearly**:
   * Let guests know how to access the upload page
   * Set expectations about photo approval
   * Encourage participation
3. **Monitor During the Event**:
   * Check for photos needing approval
   * Ensure the carousel is running smoothly
   * Address any issues promptly
4. **Post-Event Management**:
   * Download photos for safekeeping
   * Share the album with participants
   * Stop the event when finished